Hey there, Florida family! I have some news that has been a long time coming, and honestly, it’s one of those milestones that makes me sit back and exhale a huge sigh of relief.
As the Vice President of our nonprofit and a co-founder here at Byrnes Counseling Group, I’ve always believed that therapy shouldn’t be a luxury reserved for those who can afford high out-of-pocket costs. It should be a fundamental right: especially for those who are navigating the intersections of military life, queer identity, and neurodivergence.
That’s why I’m beyond stoked to announce that Byrnes Counseling Group now officially accepts Tricare insurance!
Breaking Down Barriers in the Sunshine State
If you’ve been around our community for a while, you know we do things a little differently. We aren't your typical, sterile clinical office where you sit on a stiff couch and talk to someone who looks like they’re judging your every life choice. We’re a trans-led, community-focused practice. We wear hoodies, we have candy jars, and we lead with our lived experiences.
For many of our military members and their families across Florida, finding LGBTQ therapy in Florida that is actually affirming: not just "tolerant": can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. When you add the layer of needing a provider who understands the specific stressors of military service, that haystack gets even bigger.
By accepting Tricare, we are throwing the doors wide open. Whether you’re stationed at Eglin, MacDill, or working remotely anywhere in the state, you can now access high-quality, specialized care without the financial gatekeeping that often holds people back.
Why This Matters for the LGBTQ+ and Neurodivergent Military Community
Let’s get real for a second. Being queer or trans in a military environment comes with its own unique set of challenges. There’s the history of "Don't Ask, Don't Tell," the ongoing shifts in policy, and the simple reality of being a minority within a rigid structure. When you come home (or even when you’re on base), you shouldn't have to explain your identity to your therapist. You shouldn’t have to "Trans 101" the person who is supposed to be helping you heal.
As a trans-identified therapist, I know how exhausting that is. At BCG, you don’t have to explain why your pronouns matter or why your relationship structure might be a bit more "it's complicated" than a standard box on a form. We get it because we live it.
The same goes for our neurodivergent folks. If you’re an adult navigating ADHD or autism while trying to meet the demands of military life, the sensory overload and executive dysfunction can be overwhelming. We provide neurodiversity-affirming care that focuses on building systems that work for your brain, not trying to "fix" you into being neurotypical.
Every Body is Welcome: Our Commitment to Body Diversity
In addition to expanding our financial access through Tricare, I want to make something very clear: Every body is a good body at Byrnes Counseling Group.
We live in a world that is relentlessly fatphobic, and unfortunately, the medical and mental health fields are often the worst offenders. We know that weight bias in healthcare leads to worse outcomes and prevents people from seeking the help they deserve.
At BCG, we practice from a fat-positive and body-neutral perspective. Whether you are navigating the strict physical requirements of the military or simply trying to find peace with your reflection in a world that tells you to shrink, we are here to support you. We believe that mental health is not tied to a number on a scale. We celebrate body diversity in all its forms: from the curves to the edges and everything in between.
Our therapy rooms (and our virtual screens) are safe spaces for people of all sizes. You won't find "weight loss" goals here unless they are part of a broader conversation about your autonomy and joy. Instead, you'll find a space that honors your physical self exactly as it is today.
Specialized Care That Actually "Gets It"
When we talk about trauma-informed therapy, we aren't just using a buzzword. Many of our clients come to us with "complex" histories: childhood trauma, military-related PTSD, or the chronic stress of living as a marginalized person in a state that isn't always friendly to us.
We specialize in EMDR therapy, which is a powerhouse for processing trauma. It’s not just about talking through what happened; it’s about helping your brain and body finally feel safe again. For our Tricare members, having access to specialized trauma care that understands the nuances of the military experience is a game-changer.
We also offer care that covers:
- Gender Identity & Transition: From navigating social transition to letters of support, we are here for the journey. Check out our Gender Identity Training & Education for more.
- Ethical Non-Monogamy & Poly Dynamics: Relationships come in all shapes and sizes, and we provide a kink-aware and poly-practical space.
- Neurodivergence: Support for ADHD and Autistic adults that celebrates your brain's unique wiring.
Navigating the Tricare System with Us
We know that insurance can be a headache. "Which Tricare do I have? Do I need a referral?"
As of early 2026, there are some exciting shifts happening, like the Tricare Prime Demo in certain Florida hubs that allows for more flexibility and fewer referral hurdles. Our goal is to make the process as seamless as possible.
If you’re interested in getting started, the best first step is to visit our Contact Page. Our intake team is well-versed in the specifics of military coverage and can help you figure out exactly what’s needed to get your first session on the books. You can also head over to our FAQ to see more details on the types of insurance we accept and how our billing works.
You Don’t Have to Carry This Alone
One of my favorite things we’ve ever published is A Letter to Our Future Clients. In it, we talk about the fact that so many of us are taught to be "strong" and "resilient" to the point of breaking. In the military, that pressure is magnified tenfold.
But here’s the truth: Asking for help isn't a sign of weakness. It’s an act of rebellion against a system that wants you to stay quiet and keep pushing.
By bringing Tricare into our fold, we’re hoping to reach the people who have been white-knuckling it because they didn't think they could find a therapist who understood both their service and their soul. We see you, we value you, and we are ready to work with you.
Let’s Get Started
If you’ve been waiting for a sign to start therapy, this is it. We have an incredible team of providers: many of whom have their own unique connections to the military and LGBTQ+ communities: who are ready to meet you exactly where you are.
Take a look at our Meet Our Therapists page to see who might be a good fit for you. We offer telehealth services across the entire state of Florida, so whether you’re in the Panhandle, the Keys, or anywhere in between, we can connect.
Accessing trauma-informed therapy shouldn't be a struggle. You've done enough fighting. Let us hold the space for you to finally heal, grow, and just be.
Welcome to the BCG family, Tricare members. We’re so glad you’re here.
: Tristan & The Byrnes Counseling Group Team
Ready to take the next step? Click here to schedule your intake or learn more about our services.